The Detroit Pistons have emerged as a potential suitor for Nickeil Alexander-Walker, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer via Marc Stein’s Substack.
The 26-year-old guard, who played a key rotation role for the Minnesota Timberwolves last season, is entering free agency with rising value and uncertain future in Minnesota’s cap structure.
Detroit, coming off its best season in five years with a 44–38 finish and a playoff appearance, is exploring backcourt options to deepen its roster.
Alexander-Walker averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists during the 2024–25 campaign while shooting 38.1% from beyond the arc.
His defensive versatility and three-point efficiency made him a valuable contributor on a Timberwolves team that reached the Western Conference Finals.
Minnesota already re-signed Naz Reid to a five-year, $125 million deal earlier this week, securing the former Sixth Man of the Year for the long term.
The franchise is also working to re-sign Julius Randle, another high-priority free agent.
However, with Reid secured and Randle negotiations ongoing, Alexander-Walker’s retention is becoming increasingly difficult under the salary cap.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst noted on First Take that the Timberwolves may not have the financial bandwidth to keep all three key free agents.
The guard signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Wolves in 2023 and is expected to command a significant raise this offseason.
Sources around the league estimate that his next contract could start around the $14 million midlevel exception, a figure that would strain Minnesota’s tax obligations.
Detroit, meanwhile, could have the flexibility to offer a competitive deal, especially with its young core and upward trajectory under new leadership.
